In truth, the simple and direct answer to this question is that it depends. The cost for most land surveying work is based on the following variables:
- Type of survey – Costs may increase as the required precision and scope of the survey increase.
- Record search – Research varies by the number of parcels involved and the number of past transactions. The lack of reliable records also has an impact on the survey.
- Size and shape of property – An irregularly shaped parcel has more corners to monument than a rectangular parcel containing the same area.
- Terrain – A level parcel of land is easier to survey than a rugged parcel.
- Vegetation – Branches, brush, and small trees must frequently be cleared to afford a line of sight for the surveyor. Shrubs, flowers, and trees on home sites are normally not disturbed, but additional field time may be required to work around them.
- Accessibility – The time to perform the field surveying work varies with the accessibility to the corners on the site.
- Amount of existing evidence on the property – Existing evidence, such as iron, wood, stone/concrete monuments, old fences, and occupation lines, is a considerable aid to the surveyor.
- Time of Year – In summer, foliage may present problems, making work difficult. In winter, snow/ice may increase travel time and make work difficult.
- Title Company requirements – Title companies may require more documentation than is normally required by the average landowner.
Because of these variables, it can be difficult to determine an exact fee. However, based on past experiences, a surveyor can usually furnish an approximate estimate of the costs.
Since most clients would rather have an exact cost and not be faced with the possibility of additional fees, here at Juliano Associates, we predominantly work on a lump sum basis. This means that when we quote a survey, that is the cost…period. The only time where this is not the case is when the scope of service(s) is changed by the client, another design professional working with the client, the municipality, or regulating agency.
Now, if you have read this far, you have a little bit more information/education regarding what can impact the cost of your survey, but you are still likely wanting to know a dollar figure for what a survey might cost you.
Although we have said prices can vary, we can divulge that the majority of our residential property surveys fall into one of two categories, and we have developed what can be described as a “somewhat” standardized pricing schedule. These two survey categories are the Boundary Stakeout Survey and the Zoning Location Survey.
So, for a Boundary Stakeout Survey for a two-acre or less residential property in Connecticut, you can expect the cost to be between $2,400 and $2,800 from our firm. Similarly, for the same-sized property, a Zoning Location Survey will likely vary between $3,200 and $3,800.
But wait, when I searched the internet, I read that a survey should cost around $500. How come you charge so much more? Well, for starters, the information you were provided was likely not based on any actual pricing from a professional surveyor in your area. Our suggestion would be to reach out to a few other local surveyors and obtain quotes for the exact same service(s). Don’t settle on a lower price until you are 100% sure that what is being provided is the same level of service that you would get at Juliano Associates. From what we have experienced over the years, based on feedback from people who have signed up with us and some who have gone elsewhere, is that our prices are reasonable and we tend to be neither the least expensive nor the most expensive.
What if my property is much smaller than two acres? Should the cost be less? Unfortunately, the answer is no. We have found that it takes approximately the same amount of time to survey an inner-city parcel as it does a suburban property. It isn’t until we get above two acres that we begin to notice an increase in time and, therefore, cost.